The weather is getting warmer and you know your fur baby can’t wait to roll around in the lush grass either in your backyard, front lawn, or both. But before that happens, you may want to read this blog first.
Lawn Chemicals & Your Pets
Many studies have shown that exposure to lawn pesticides are linked to canine malignant lymphoma (CML) and canine bladder cancer. Dogs weighing over 50lbs that have access to grass that contains pesticides, herbicides, or even insect growth regulators are at high risk of (CML). Common lawn and garden products that contain 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), 4-chloro-2-methylphenoxypropionic acid (MCPP) and/or dicamba can cause bladder cancer.
Exposure to chemicals occurs through….
- Ingestion
- Inhalation
- transdermally (through the skin)
tip: Breeds with a genetic predisposition for bladder cancer, including Beagles, Scottish Terriers, Shetland Sheepdogs, West Highland White Terriers, and Wire Hair Fox Terriers are at particularly high risk.
Ways to play it safe
- Don’t apply chemical pesticides or herbicides to your grass. Make sure your landscaper gets the memo too.
- Avoid insect growth regulators (IGRs). Note that pyriproxyfen, an (IGR) is also an ingredient found in some flea & tick treatments.
- Consider using organic treatments for your lawn care.
- If your pet has played in chemically treated grass, bathe your dog & soak their paws ASAP.
- Increase the number of paw soaks & baths through spring and fall seasons when chemically treated lawns are high in public areas.
- If you live in a community where you don’t have control over lawn treatment, try detoxing your area by pouring water. Watering down the soil can reduce skin contact.